As you know I am always in pursuit of ways to reduce my footprint on the earth, especially with Plastic use. This month it's Plastic Free July, which is a key initiative of the Plastic Free Foundation.
Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution - so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. In July 2019 an estimated 250 million people, from 177 countries took part. Participants reported to have; reduced their household waste and recycling by 23kg per person per year (almost 5%), contributed to a total saving of 825 million kg of plastic waste each year and 9/10 people have formed new eco-friendly habits. Read more about it here and sign up to their newsletter to get tips to your inbox.
Of course, it's not just for July, but this movement gives us a chance to focus, join together, share our swaps and tips - in the hope that each year we all get a bit better at being eco-friendly. It's also great for those taking their first step into a plastic-free life, as we know, it's not always easy. If you finish the month with just one new habit, then you are making progress, one thing is better than none and it DOES make a difference.
My 'Plastic-Free July' swaps
In homage to the 'Plastic-Free July' campaign, here are some really lovely products which I now use in place of plastic alternatives. It might give you some inspiration on what you can try yourself.
Face Gems V Face Florals
My first swap suggestion is for those who love to add a little extra to their eco glitter makeup look. Instead of plastic gems, why not try real, dried flowers. We loved the idea so much that we partnered with Face Florals by Hanna to create our Face Florals BioGlitter Pure Gift Set. Everything in this set is 100% plastic-free, eco-friendly and cruelty-free. For us, it's a super easy swap.
Plastic Free (bottle) Mouthwash
I love the fresh feeling of a good mouthwash, so to my delight, I found this one, Waken. It comes in a variety of natural minty flavours and in sustainable packaging, like endlessly recyclable aluminium and FSC approved paper. Discovering this earlier in the year, was a revelation. My current favourite is the aniseed flavour.
DIY Toothpaste
Now, this is not for everyone, but I urge you to at least give it a go. My recipe was inspired by Lauren Singer from @trashisfortossers, who also has loads of other really good tips, you should check her out. An added bonus to making your own toothpaste is that it's super cheap, which means more cash for eco glitter (the essentials) right?! ;)
DIY TOOTHPASTE INGREDIENTS
2 heaped tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp of bicarbonate of soda or baking soda
20 drops of essential oil - Choose from; peppermint, oregano, cinnamon, spearmint or tea tree (if you are feeling brave!).
METHOD
Get yourself an airtight container
Mix your ingredients together in that container
Taste test - do not eat it, but taste a tiny bit on your tongue
NOTE: It will have a saltier less sweet taste than your normal toothpaste, this is normal.
Too salty? Add more coconut oil and essential oil to suit your taste
Happy with the taste? Close your lid, and use as you need to.
USE BY - This recipe lasts up to 6 months.
TIPS
This toothpaste will never foam, so don't expect that.
Some people miss the sweet flavour of regular toothpaste. You can add some xylitol drops to help with this. I just rinse with Waken Mouth care after which leaves my mouth dangerously fresh!
Shower gel & soap
To replace my plastic shower gel bottle, I use Conchus, which is a shower and bath soap bar. It's plastic-free, made from delicious natural ingredients and handmade in the UK. The founder, Camilla, makes so many amazing products and her soap is just divine. They are taking a break right now, but follow them on Instagram or Facebook to keep track of when they start selling again.
Deodorant
If like me, you have tried so many plastic and aluminium free natural deodorants and feel like giving up - don't. I discovered Cacao Pow Deo Bar, and it's amazing. It comes in glass jars, is UK produced and is made with cacao butter which is 100% organic. It's free from coconut oil, palm oil, aluminium and fragrance, and it works. My husband and I both adore it.
Eco-friendly makeup remover pads
I love the fact that these are now everywhere, it's great to see a viable replacement for those pesky wet wipes. I use Tabitha Eve pride makeup remover pads. They are super soft and gentle, and they do a fab job of cleaning up the daily grime off my face. They are really easy to clean too, just pop them in the washing machine. You'll never need a single use makeup wipe or pad again! Tabitha Eve also have a gorgeous collection of handmade cotton and bamboo homewares, and many of them are on my wish list!
Recyclable Electric Toothbrush heads
I love using my electric toothbrush, so finding Live Coco Electric Toothbrush heads, which are not plastic-free but they fully recyclable, is a dream. Just send back the heads to the company for total recycling of brush and bristles. It's great not having to give up my beloved electric toothbrush.
Got some other ideas?
Tag us in on socials and share your plastic-free July journey, tips and positive vibes.